In the ever-expanding world of sports cards, 2023 has been yet another monumental year for card-grading companies PSA and ISA. Known for their expertise in determining the value and authenticity of trading cards, PSA recently unveiled the top 10 athletes and cards based on submissions for the year. Topping the list is none other than baseball sensation Shohei Ohtani, who has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with his exceptional talents on both the mound and at the plate.
Fresh off signing a record-breaking $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani’s popularity has skyrocketed, and so has the demand for his trading cards. One card in particular, his 2018 Topps #700 Pitching card, has become a highly sought-after treasure among collectors. As a result, Ohtani has become the most submitted athlete to PSA this year, holding not just one but four spots in the top 10 most graded sports cards of 2023.
While Ohtani reigns supreme, another legendary figure in the sports world continues to make waves in the card-submission realm. Michael Jordan, widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, remains an iconic figure in the trading card industry. His 1990 Fleer card has become a collector’s favorite, propelling him to second place in the most submitted athletes for 2023.
Joining Ohtani and Jordan in the top 10 athletes of the year are rising stars like Julio Rodriguez, Trevor Lawrence, and Joe Burrow. Rodriguez, a promising baseball prospect, has garnered significant attention with his impressive performance on the field. Meanwhile, Lawrence and Burrow, both highly-touted quarterbacks in the NFL, have also attracted a considerable number of submissions as fans hope to capture their rising stardom on cardboard.
The list of the most graded sports cards of 2023 is a testament to the popularity and demand for these collectibles. Ohtani’s dominance continues as several of his cards, including the 2018 Bowman #49 and the 2018 Topps Update US285, grace the top 10. Notable mentions also include the 2022 Bowman Chrome Prospects BCP50 Elly De La Cruz, a rising star in baseball, and the 1989 Upper Deck #1 Ken Griffey Jr. Star Rookie, showcasing the enduring legacy of “The Kid.”
Football card submissions have seen notable increases as well, with two outstanding quarterbacks making their mark. Chicago Bears’ Justin Fields has experienced a remarkable 119% surge in submissions compared to 2022, demonstrating the immense excitement surrounding his potential. Following closely behind is Trevor Lawrence of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who has seen a 98% increase in card submissions. These young quarterbacks are captivating fans and collectors alike as they navigate their way through their professional careers.
Interestingly, Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end Travis Kelce has also experienced a significant growth in submissions. While Kelce’s on-field prowess is undeniably impressive, some speculate that his public relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift may have contributed to the increased interest in his trading cards.
Rookie cards continue to dominate the grading submissions across various sports. In basketball, Paolo Banchero and Victor Wembanyama have emerged as top prospects, generating excitement and driving up the demand for their rookie cards. The football scene features standout rookies like Kenny Pickett and Brock Purdy, both showcasing immense potential on the gridiron. Finally, in baseball, Elly De La Cruz and Adley Rutschman are capturing attention with their rising talents, making their rookie cards highly sought-after among collectors.
As the year progresses, the sports card industry shows no signs of slowing down. With superstars like Shohei Ohtani leading the pack, accompanied by rising talents such as Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence, the allure and excitement of collecting trading cards persist in captivating enthusiasts worldwide. Whether it’s the thrill of owning a piece of sports history or the potential for future investment, the world of trading cards remains an enthralling endeavor for collectors of all ages.